Discover the Beauty of Norway’s Hut-to-Hut Hiking Experience
Hut-to-hut hiking in Norway is a deeply rooted tradition, cherished by locals for its simplicity, connection with nature, and sense of community. Recently, this type of active travel was named one of the top-ten travel trends by Forbes.
Up Norway is bringing a fresh twist to this classic tradition. Their curated journeys blend rustic cabins with boutique stays, local cuisine, and cultural experiences, creating a perfect balance of authenticity and luxury. These immersive experiences are designed to be more accessible for global travelers.
Hiking in Norway offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, local culture, and yourself. Norway boasts over 550 DNT hytter (cabins managed by the Norwegian Trekking Association), many of which are remote and can only be reached by foot, ski, or bike. From simple wooden huts in the mountains to family-friendly lodges with modern comforts, these cabins allow you to explore the country’s stunning landscapes.
Popular regions for these journeys include Jotunheimen, Aurlandsdalen, the Sunnmøre Alps, and Lofoten.
Book your stay now with MWR LIFE and enjoy a unique vacation at a cabin in a fjord in the Lofoten Islands. Embrace the tranquil beauty of nature and create unforgettable memories.
DNT’s new mountain hut Skalatarnet, at the summit of Skala, at sunset, Loen, Norway
Recently, architects have been blending modern design and eco-friendly materials with nature and the traditions of cabin life. But the real magic lies in the journey between the huts — stillness in alpine meadows, foraging in the wild, swims in glacier-fed lakes, and candlelit bonfire dinners with fellow hikers. These natural elements reflect the Norwegian ethos of «kos,» or cozy contentment.
Hut-to-hut travel focuses not just on the destination, but on the transformative power of the journey. Experiences are tailored to a traveler’s preferences, fitness level, and interest in cultural immersion.
In Jotunheimen National Park, you may hike across dramatic ridge lines and deep valleys, spending nights at historic DNT cabins such as Gjendebu (Norway’s oldest cabin, dating back to 1871), Memurubu (a scenic spot located on the shores of Lake Gjende), and Gjendesheim (nestled below the Besseggen ridge).
The Aurlandsdalen Valley, often called Norway’s Grand Canyon, offers a historic trail from Finse to Flåm, following ancient paths dating back to the Viking era. Hikers can stay in huts along the way, finishing at the peaceful 29|2 Aurland eco-lodge by the river. The lodge is known for its organic kitchen, artisanal interiors, and commitment to sustainability.
The Sunnmøre Alps blend wilderness with luxury. A hike to the summit of Slogen, followed by a stay at Patchellhytta, is complemented by a fjord cruise and a night at Hotel Union Øye. This historic hotel, hosting Norwegian royalty and European nobility since the 19th century, offers an unforgettable experience.
Exterior and Garden of Hotel Union Øye, Norwegian Fjord
For adventurous travelers, the challenging trails of Reinheimen and Romsdalen offer hut-to-hut treks, via ferrata climbs, trail running, and summit hikes.
Alternatively, the Hardangerfjord region provides more accessible hikes, such as the iconic Trolltunga, a rock ledge 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet. The Queen’s Trail (Dronningstien) also offers scenic cliffside views of the fjord and surrounding orchards.
The summer view of Trolltunga in Odda, Norway, offers breathtaking scenery with the Ringedalsvatnet lake below.
In the north, the Lofoten Islands and Arctic Circle Region near Helgeland combine day hikes, remote cabin stays, fjord kayaking, floating saunas, and local storytelling.
You can also connect with Sámi culture, meet foragers and farmers, and enjoy local cuisine. One example is a two-day hike to Rabothytta, known for its stunning granite peaks, glaciers, lakes, and coastal archipelago, followed by a relaxing culinary farm stay by the fjord.
These routes offer adventure, reflection, and a deeper connection to Norwegian traditions, balancing challenge with comfort.